Great place in Atlanta to condition and train for bigger mountains. I recommend jogging up and walking down. I agree with Bob the over-commercialization of the place is annoying to say the least. If you want a little more peacful hike you can walk around the backside of the mountain (the side facing SSE about 150degrees). Keep in mind there is a line painted onto the mountain that your not supposed to cross. This side is considerably steeper than the normal walkup trail, but its practically desserted and is a neat area to explore. Just be sure to abide by the park regulations.

It was hot and muggy so with two grandkids in tow, the tram was the better way to go. There is a benchmark near the highest spot and I'm told that that it is the highest point in DeKalb county (any county highpointers out there?) Great view in all directions but lots of people too.

I've climbed Stone Mountain a number of times beginning when I was seven years old. I try to go back once every few years to climb it, but I find the commercial aspects of this park to be particularly distasteful.